Edward A. Donnelly, 76, of Raymond, died peacefully on May 4, 2018 at his home of 42 years after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his family, friends and his devoted and faithful companions Dixie and Smokey who remained by his side throughout his illness. He was born in Manchester on August 25, 1942, the third of seven children, to Edward and Eva (Whittemore) Donnelly. He grew up in Manchester and was educated in the Queen City school system.
He was a proud veteran of the US Navy, enlisting at the age of 17 during the Vietnam War and serving for 29 years. Ed was a true craftsman and following his discharge founded Unlimited Auto Body in Hooksett where he was the successful owner and operator for more than 27years. Following his retirement, he worked as the manager of NH Blacktop Sealers of Auburn.
Ed believed in living life to its fullest. He was a diehard Elvis fan and had a genuine passion for cars, especially ’55 Fords and Lincolns having owned several during his lifetime. He enjoyed bowling with his wife at Strikers East in Raymond and spending time with family, friends and co-workers. He also enjoyed traveling and visited numerous states, various countries and made frequent trips to his favorite “Hot Spot”, Las Vegas. Everyone could recognize him as he drove by with his license plate –VEGAS-. Ed was loved and cherished by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will certainly live on in their hearts and memories.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Richard Rumphrey and his sister Blanche Kennedy.
Members of his family include his loving wife of 52 years, Thelma (Blichmann) Donnelly of Raymond, his daughters Kristen Payton and her husband Norman of Hooksett and Shannon Donnelly of Concord, his grandchildren and best buddies Dylen, Joshua, Clayton and Norman III, his brother Michael Donnelly and his wife Elaine of Massachusetts, his sisters Maureen Donnelly of Florida, Joan Mikels and her husband George of Oregon and Gloria Demers and her husband Dave of Manchester as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation was held on Wednesday May 16 from 6 to 8 pm at the McHugh Funeral Home 283 Hanover St. corner of Beech St. in Manchester with a Memorial Service celebrated at 7:30 pm. Urn burial will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations in Ed’s name be made to the Manchester Animal Shelter 490 Dunbarton Rd. Manchester, NH 03102.
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